Trust & a New Contract
My word for 2023 is trust. Trust my gut. Trust the process. And trust that the journey laid out for me is purposeful and perfect.
I promised myself I’d query more than a hundred agents for the first book of my Scottish Stars Contemporary Romance Series. And, guess what? I actually queried close to 120. Among the 120, I received partial and full manuscript requests from agents, and an offer from The Wild Rose Press.
One particular agent, I thought was my dream agent. She reviewed my full manuscript and asked for a Revise and Resubmit, requesting I add more detail around the heroine’s heritage and connection to Scotland. I revised and resubmitted. Unfortunately, she didn’t offer representation. Another agent apologized for my query being open for close to a year. Although she loved my story, she noted that due to the sheer volume of her workload if she took me on as a client, she couldn’t even focus on my MS for another year, maybe longer. Another agent, loved my idea but had just taken on a client with another travel MS. All asked for me to send them more work. There were also form rejections or no response at all (both common in the industry).
Although I want my agent champion, I can’t deny the opportunity to publish with The Wild Rose Press. The editor loved my book and believed, as I do, that my story will take readers on a vicarious vacation of adventure, love, and self-discovery, while resonating with fans of Outlander.
I want to be a published, career author.
I want my books to be in the hands of millions of readers.
And I want to be successful, take care of my family, spread love, and help others.
Like I noted previously, my word for the year is trust. I’ve been talking about this series and more specifically, the first book, for some time on social media, amongst friends, and family. There has been such a wonderful and positive anticipation from readers. I could query another ten, twenty, or thirty agents, but then I’d be waiting another three, six, or even twelve months for feedback.
At this stage in my author journey, perhaps I’m right where I’m supposed to be.
I’ve decided to put my energy and trust into my own growth and author journey—and that’s getting another book into readers’ hands. Last night, on March 30, 2023, I signed the contract for The Wild Rose Press, declaring my decision to publish the first book in my Scottish Stars series with them and dream big.
Book 1 - Scottish Stars Romance Series Mood Board
I’m grateful for The Wild Rose Press for this opportunity. Stay tuned for more updates coming soon!
Thank you for continuing on this journey with me!
With love,
Erica